The MTV Staying Alive Foundation (SAF) has officially announced the production team for the highly anticipated new season of MTV Shuga Mashariki, marking the return of the iconic drama series to Kenyan soil after 15 years.
Filming is now underway, promising fans a fresh take on bold storytelling that tackles real-life issues faced by today’s youth.
This season boasts an all-star Kenyan production lineup, led by acclaimed directors Likarion Wainaina (Supa Modo, Subterranea), June Ndinya (Prefects, Flash Squad), and Mkaiwawi Mwakaba (4Play, Makosa ni Yangu).
The series is produced by Reuben Odanga (Selina, Mo-Faya) with cinematography by Enos Olik (Supa Modo, Crime and Justice), showcasing the best of Kenya’s film industry talent.
Mitchelle Kimathi from MTV Staying Alive Foundation emphasized the crucial role of female directors in shaping the show’s narrative, ensuring a more authentic representation of women’s experiences. “We’re committed to amplifying women’s voices both on and off the screen, Kimathi stated.
Executive Director Wame Jallow added that MTV Shuga Mashariki is not just a drama series but a celebration of Kenyan storytelling, aiming to challenge gender norms and inspire youth empowerment.
A Legacy of Bold Storytelling
Since its debut in Kenya in November 2009, MTV Shuga has been a trailblazer in using entertainment to address critical social issues such as responsible sexual behavior, HIV/AIDS awareness, gender-based violence, and reproductive rights.
The series quickly gained popularity across Africa, airing in over 40 countries before expanding globally to more than 70 territories.
In 2013, the show shifted its production to Nigeria under the title Shuga Naija, broadening its focus to teen pregnancy and gender-based issues while continuing to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.
Collaborations with organizations like Nigeria’s National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Unitaid, and Paramount contributed to its international success, reaching an estimated 550 million households worldwide.
More Than Just a Drama
Over the years, MTV Shuga has evolved into a powerful educational tool, sparking critical conversations about safe sex, consent, and healthy relationships, ”topics that are often considered taboo in many communities. By embedding these themes into relatable storylines, the series has not only entertained but also educated millions of young viewers across Africa and beyond.
With the return of MTV Shuga Mashariki to Kenya, fans can look forward to a new chapter of captivating drama, powerful social messages, and world-class production quality. As filming continues, anticipation builds for what promises to be another impactful season of one of Africa’s most influential television series.
